If you’re a makeup artist, or you’ve hired a makeup artist, this is a MUST read (yes, even if you think you’re nailing sanitation)! It may seem like a boring topic, but nothing gets me fired up more than artists with bad habits, so I’m outlining the five areas you need to pay attention to below. Photo Credit: Jessi Lauren 1) Disposables Creams cannot be sanitized after double dipping, so disposables are your first must. Lip wands, mascara spoolies, q-tips & sponges are items I keep in my kit at all times. If you’re applying a second coat of lash glue, place the glue on your palette first ..read more

Photo Credit: Holly McMurter Photographs Wedding season is coming to an end! If you’re in the bridal industry, it’s more than likely that you’re feeling burnt out.. But one area that shouldn’t feel this way? Your bank account! If you’ve ever been left wondering where your profits went after working day in & day out for an entire season, this is for you. Winter for me is the season of commercial & boudoir + ALL the bridal trials, in addition to scaling JACQUIE. Cosmetics & updating basically everything business related. This means that my “off” season doesn’t allow for any downtime ..read more

DOS: Designate a peaceful area for hair & makeup, ideally with plenty of natural light, a table & stools. Keeping this area clutter free will also make for extra gorgeous getting ready photos! Tell your friends & family to have 1-2 reference photos available of looks they're loving. This is especially important for clearer communication & a faster application process. I recommend Pinterest as a starting point! In saying this, also tell them to be aware of overly-photoshopped images (i.e. have realistic expectations). Groom your eyebrows & take care of any unwanted fac ..read more

So it's no secret that I've taken a few weeks (okay months) away from blogging, but 2018 is the year for refresh. Refreshing my business, my mind, my body & of course my blog! I want everything I share in 2018 to be genuinely helpful. So while I will be posting less, my mindset is all about quality over quantity.. & what better way to start the year's content off than with a few dos & don'ts for your bridal trial prep! After reading this, you'll go into your bridal trial with zero stress & knowing exactly what to expect. DO: 1) Find inspiration & be open to ..read more

If you know me, you know that New Year's tops my favourite holiday list (tied with Halloween of course)! I love the feeling of a fresh start & the time for making new goals, while reflecting on old ones. That being said, I generally stay away from "resolutions," as I find they haven't stuck with me in the past. So think of these resolutions down below more as goals & refreshing ideas instead!  1) Gradually replace your collection with cruelty-free items. Simple as that! For each item in your collection you use up (yes, including back ups!), replace it with a cruelty-free alternat ..read more

With the holidays approaching, falsies are one of the easiest & quickest ways to amp up your look for that office Christmas party. With the right lash, you can also skip the eyeliner altogether! Application Tips: Before starting, curl your lashes & apply a thin coat of waterproof mascara (to hold the curl). This will give your falsies a base to rest on. Also remember that practice makes perfect, especially with falsies! Step 1) Apply a thin layer of lash glue (my current go-to is Duo, in the green tube) to the lash band. Step 2) Wait 30-60 seconds for the glue to become tacky be ..read more

After touching up your complexion (you can read my guide on that here!), with a few simple tweaks you can take your look from day to night. These steps are perfect for going from the office to drinks, and because there are few products required, you can keep them at your desk or in your bag for on-the-go! & for my brides, don't be afraid to keep these tips at hand if you're looking to amp up your day look without the hassle of carrying a full makeup bag on your wedding day! Now onto the steps.. 1) Eyeliner Now if you're anything like me, you hit snooze three times & skipped ..read more

Touching up your makeup can either make or break the gorgeous look you (or your makeup artist) spent so long creating. It's also crucial for a longer-lasting finish, whether you're a bride, a student who can't seem to escape the library, or a fellow entrepreneur grinding well after 5 o'clock. Step 1: Blot A common complaint from clients I've heard over & over is that touching up leads to a cakey appearance. More likely than not this is because they aren't blotting before re-powdering & so their natural oils are messing with what they're re-applying. My golden rule for touching up ..read more

So you've decided to take the destination or elopement route for your wedding, amazing!.. & even though your makeup artist isn't able to come along, these essentials will ensure your makeup looks just as gorgeous & most importantly lasts well into the night of whatever climate you'll be saying your I dos in!  If at all possible, I also recommend booking a lesson with a local makeup artist well in advance of your big day. During a lesson you'll be able to have your specific concerns addressed with the help of a professional & your artist will also most likely give you personal ..read more

Going cruelty-free can seem daunting, I know! But everyone goes through the exact same transition, so at least you know you're not alone. If you start small, you'll also lessen the chance of feeling overwhelmed & quitting all together. Every little bit helps, so don't be discouraged by an all or nothing approach, as it rarely works for anyone!  STEP 1: DE-CLUTTER. I think this is an often overlooked (but vital) step towards going cruelty-free. You'll be less overwhelmed & more focused if you can narrow your collection down to only the products you love & use. De-cluttering do ..read more